Lift truck operator assist solutions

Operator assist solutions are designed to help forklift operators work more safely, efficiently and consistently. Some simply inform operators and managers, with inputs from the operating environment providing data that can be used to enhance operator behavior and equipment management. Other operator assist solutions, like lights, alarms and mirrors, do not respond to inputs but assist operators with awareness of their environment. Finally, active alerts and interventions warn operators of immediate hazards and can automatically adjust truck behavior through speed controls, stability management and other functions.

No. Active intervention features are designed to support safety without sacrificing productivity. When sensors detect a hazard, the system may automatically adjust truck speed, stability or operating parameters to help the operator avoid an incident. Once the risk is cleared, the truck returns to normal performance. Rather than slowing operations, active interventions help maintain uptime by reducing accidents, product damage and unplanned downtime.

No. Operator assist solutions do not increase a lift truck’s maximum rated load capacity. Forklifts are engineered with strict load ratings to protect operators, loads and equipment. Our operator assist technology functions within those limits.

Select operator assist solutions are for use in indoor facilities, not outdoors, making them a strong fit for warehouses. But because operator assist solutions comprise a versatile toolset, the options cover a broad range of operating temperatures and include solutions that are resilient in outdoor work environments. Your local Yale® dealer can assess your operation and help you decide on the operator assist solutions that are best fit for your applications.

Not every operator assist solution is available on or compatible with every forklift model offered. Some operator assist solutions require part makeups — such as e-hydraulics, steering angle sensors or counterweights — that are specific to certain lift truck classes, power sources or models. For example, trucks without masts can’t be equipped with high-lift load tilt control. However, many of these solutions are available for a wide range of Yale lift trucks, including many core warehouse models. Your local dealer can review your fleet and equipment purchase plans and give you information about all of your operator assist options.

The cost of operator assist solutions depends on the provider and the needs of your operation. Standard solutions are factory-installed and included by default on most products. They’re designed to support daily performance across all environments. Advanced solutions are high-performance enhancements designed for specialized or demanding applications. It’s worth considering which of these capabilities is most valuable for your specific operation, and your local dealer can help you make that assessment.